UNHCR has been present in Kuwait since 1991. In 1996, UNHCR and the Government of Kuwait signed a Cooperation and Office Agreement, granting UNHCR privileges and immunities in the State of Kuwait. UNHCR enjoys a long-standing relationship with the Government of Kuwait, which ranks as the top donor to UNHCR in the region over the last 10 years, with contributions exceeding US$435 million.
The Government of Kuwait, and its developmental arm, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED), have provided significant support to UNHCR to respond to the Iraq, Syria, and Yemen situations. There has also been an increase in engagement through the private sector and through Islamic philanthropy.
UNHCR carries out a range of protection activities in the country for people of concern, including refugee status determination, learning and development, and community-based protection. UNHCR continues to pursue durable solutions such as complementary pathways for refugees.